Despite mounting pressure from nationalists to snub the event, Sri Lanka Sports Minister Mahindananda Aluthgamage said that the players were allowed to take part in the Indian Premier League in view of BCCI’s assistance to Sri Lanka at times of need in the past.

“We have to take into account our good relations with the BCCI and their assistance given to Sri Lanka at times of need in the past,” said Aluthgamage responding to why the players were allowed to proceed despite protests.

Aluthgamage also said that the players were free to play in States other than Tamil Nadu and the BCCI had provided written assurances of their safety.

Ashley de Silva, the acting CEO of Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) said that the cricketers have given letters of consent to play in the IPL.

CNN: Sri Lanka Tour

The Indian government has built 10,250 houses last year for internally displaced people in Sri Lanka's northern and eastern provinces. "Another 27,750 houses will be constructed.....! Indian Deputy High Commissioner in Jaffna transferred to Guyana....! Minister G.L.Peries to visit China...!